Screenwriting SoftwareWhat's Right for You?

Screenwriting software is an essential tool for any screenwriter to have in their arsenal. So if you're here because you're not sure whether or not to buy it at all, because Microsoft Word does have that handy template after all... Stop wondering. You absolutely need it.

Here's the obvious reason: Screenwriting software automatically makes sure that your scripts are industry standard. So you know all those horror stories you hear about execs tossing scripts just because the margins are off? With a good writing program, that will never be you.

But there are less obvious reasons too. For me, it's all about saving time. That's not to say I spend less time writing because of software. On the contrary, it encourages me to write more.

There's nothing more frustrating than trying to get an idea or a line or a joke out, and being stiff armed by a margin or a spacing issue on Word. Screenwriting software makes writing a script intuitive and easy.

And here's a secret... Every brand out there... All of the products you've been considering... They all make screenwriting much easier. They all make it intuitive. They're all really, pretty similar.

What's that old biology nomenclature system? Kingdom phylum class family order genus species?

All screenwriting software are exactly the same. Right down to species. Just like all humans are the same. Only the bells and whistles are different.

So with that, you can rest easy. Whatever you buy... It's gonna work. It's gonna be help, and it's much better than not using any screenwriting software at all.

But let's get down to those bells and whistles. Below you'll find information on all the top screenwriting software out there.

1) Final Draft

This is the industry leader. The most obvious advantage with this product is that it is almost ubiquitous in the screenwriting world. Every co-writer or writing friend will likely have this software. That means you can send your script in Final Draft format and it will get read.

But there are some other good perks as well. When I first got Final Draft, I was most impressed by the different templates offered. There are modes in the software for sitcoms, plays, TV movies, features and more. In fact, these categories are broken down even further, even including popular formatting for popular TV shows like "The Office" and "30 Rock."

Final Draft screenwriting software costs $249. This is one of the most expensive options out there. You're paying for it's far-reach in the industry. They're the most popular, so they can charge you for it. Other programs just aren't as compatible.

2) Movie Magic Screenwriter

This is probably the second most widely used product out there. And as I mention above, it does pretty much everything that Final Draft does. The important stuff (simple formatting and ease of use) is really just as good. Just as intuitive. Just as easy to use.

Obviously, Movie Magic is not as common as Final Draft. Most studios, producers, etc. will likely have a copy, and therefore be able to read these files. But you can't bet on it. And when it comes to other writers... it's much less certain that they'll own a copy. That could get very frustrating when it comes time to trade drafts if you're working on a script together.

But Movie Magic does compensate in many ways. The best feature offered here is the huge variety of templates offered. Like Final Draft, you can work in sitcom, feature, or most other formats. But Movie Magic also has outlining and brainstorming functionalities.

These come in very handy when you're trying to stay organized, and can really make the difference as you slog through your script.

Movie Magic costs $199.95.

3) CeltX

This is a very popular free screenwriting software option available online. It has tons of great features. It's easy to use and easy to install.

That said, of all three options listed here, it is most difficult to collaborate with this option. Yes - anyone can download this for free, but producers, agents, managers, whoever, often won't bother.

They'll dismiss you as unprofessional if you can't send them Final Draft (and to a lesser degree, Movie Magic).

Still, CeltX is the best option if you're just experimenting. If you're not sure you're into screenwriting enough to plunk the cash, definitely check this out.

It's got great functionalities, it's intuitive and simple. But when you do decide you're ready to be a professional amateur - invest in one of the other screenwriting software options listed here.